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In the late 2010s, as the doored suite category of aircraft seating transitioned from first class to business class, regulators began referring to them as “mini-suites.” The term "mini" underscores a key visibility distinction between a first-class suite with doors and walls that flight attendants cannot see over, and a business-class suite where the walls and doors are low enough for clear visibility.
As business class suites have evolved, some airlines are differentiating based on the height of their suite walls and doors, impacting privacy. After multiple flights in various products and experiences at manufacturer facilities and trade shows, it is evident that higher-walled suites offer significantly more privacy for passengers.
This additional privacy is beneficial but requires airlines to redesign service patterns to avoid passengers feeling ignored or startled by flight attendants appearing unexpectedly. These issues are critical for long-haul network airlines, where business class is an economic pillar.
